Hard Conditions, Strong Community: Round 1 Recap
Image: @the_catchalot
Round 1 Recap – 2026 Season Kickoff
If Sunday March 8 was any indication of what the year ahead holds, the 2026 season for the Newcastle Bodyboarding Club has officially begun with grit, determination, and a whole lot of heart.
This day delivered the kind of weather most people would happily watch from the comfort of their couch — howling wind, driving rain, and wild washing waves that seemed determined to push everyone back up the beach. Purple lips and chattering teeth became the unofficial uniform of the day as competitors and spectators braved the elements. It definitely wasn’t the usual set-up we’re used to for a club round, but that didn’t stop anyone from getting out there and having a go.
And that’s exactly what makes this club what it is.
Despite the intense conditions, we had a fantastic turnout to kick off the year. Seeing so many members down at Newy Beach in weather like that says everything about the strength of this community. The 2026 season has started with a strong showing, and the stoke on the beach never faded — even when the rain came sideways.
The U12 groms absolutely charged the shorey. What might have looked like chaos to most was a playground to them, and they ripped into the punchy little runners with zero hesitation. Watching the next generation throw themselves into waves like that is always a highlight.
The U16s were another standout. It’s clear their summer was all about growth. The progression was obvious — bigger lines, more confidence, and a maturity in the water that shows just how much work they’ve been putting in over the break. If this round is anything to go by, the level in this division is going to be seriously fun to watch this year.
Conditions may have been brutal, the wind relentless, and the rain unforgiving, but the energy on the beach told a different story. Round 1 reminded everyone what the club is really about — turning up, supporting each other, and getting in the water no matter what.
Not your typical contest day… but definitely a memorable way to launch the 2026 Newcastle Bodyboarding Club season.
Bring on Round 2 🌊🤙
Images: @the_catchalot
